2nd December 1917

Bandsman W Metcalfe 46534, 52nd Royal Sussex Regt, Colchester

Dear Emmie
Thanks very much for the letter of the 29th ult. One month nearer the end of the war; I suppose you are thinking of Christmas now. I am sorry to say that we will be drilling Boxing Day just as ordinary days. We only get two days off in the Army they are Good Friday and Christmas day; otherwise I would be dying to see you but as we don’t get Boxing day off I won’t die but I hope to have four days leave soon after. Some scandle on at the office, what! Are you going to be bridesmaid for Mr Clark if so there is a chance for some more scandle somebody might say that you are going to be maid his bride. If I am up when Bertie is home I won’t be able to speak to him without saluting. I don’t suppose it would do any good to take stripes; N.C.Os. are always getting into trouble and they have to do the dirty work. I am getting very impromtuous? Lately, when the time comes, then will I decide. My crop is progressing very well; I was going to get a hair cut yesterday only I didn’t have time.
I am going on a gas course next Tuesday; I saw my name on the order board: I don’t know why they picked me. The railway men seem to be doing very well financially, have you heard anything of your rise yet. I have not heard anything of our increase yet, I still get along on my 3/6d fifty two-times annually. I am learning how to play chess; rather a hard game: it seems to make everybodys’ head ache.
The orchestra is playing at that Baptist church next Thursday and it is a very good programme too. I hope when I come home I will be able to turn those grey hairs black but a few white hairs doesn’t make any difference to the goods.
Well my dearest I will close now with Best and Truest Love
From your affectionate partner
Will